Ghana approves immediate evacuation of about 300 citizens from South Africa amid violence

The government of Ghana has approved the immediate evacuation of approximately 300 of its citizens from South Africa, citing a wave of anti-immigrant violence and intimidation. The decision, authorized by President John Dramani Mahama, follows a formal travel advisory and the voluntary registration of distressed nationals with Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria.

Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed the operation, stating the government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaians abroad. The evacuation comes amid escalating protests in South Africa targeting foreign nationals, particularly in provinces such as Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Groups including Operation Dudula have organized marches demanding stricter immigration enforcement and mass deportations.

The South African government has rejected characterizations of the country as xenophobic. Presidential spokesman Vincent Magwenya described the unrest as isolated protests permissible under the constitution and linked tensions to broader issues of crime, illegal immigration, and socioeconomic pressures. President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the violence, stating it does not reflect official...